Self-Drive - Around Iceland 13d ⋆ Sacred Earth Travel

Self-Drive: Around Iceland in 13 days

Itinerary

Day 1

Arriving in Reykjavik

Reykjavík is a safe, clean, and vibrant city that has great museums, historical attractions, galleries, shops, open-air geothermal swimming pools and much more – so there is something for all to enjoy! While exploring the city, a taste of delicious Icelandic cuisine can be found in a variety of exciting restaurants located all over the city. The Airport Direct shuttle will transfer you to your accommodation in Reykjavík from Keflavik Airport upon arrival. Optional, and not included in the price, is to pick up the rental car at the airport when you arrive.

Accommodation is in Reykjavík Capital Area (optional not included in the price).

Optional

Soak in the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa (please make sure you reserve the admission to the lagoon in advance).

Day 2

Hraunfossar – (c) Kristín Jónsdóttir

Borgarfjörður Area

Explore Borgarfjörður area known for its beauty and as the site of most of the Icelandic Sagas. Take time to enjoy Reykholt, one of Iceland’s important historical sites, and the stunning Hraunfossar, a series of waterfalls formed by rivulets streaming out of Hallmundarhraun Lava. Close by era Barnafoss Waterfalls and Deildartunguhver Hot Spring.

Accommodation is in Borganes or Borgarfjörður area for two nights.

Day 3

Northwest Iceland

Watch seals bask on the beach while enjoying the view of Hvítserkur cliff off Vatnsnes Peninsula, which legend claim is a petrified troll! The area is one of the largest seal colonies in Iceland, and at Hvammstangi, there is a Seal Center. Explore Skagafjörður area, famous for its horse breeding, and pretty Tröllaskagi Peninsula. In Varmahlíð visit Glaumbær farmhouse, a preserved turf house, and Víðimýrarkirkja turf church. If you still have time for a small detour, we recommend the swimming pool in Hofsós, right by the Atlantic Ocean, before you check in at your accommodation for the night.

Accommodation is in Skagafjörður area.

Day 4

Akureyri & Lake Mývatn Area

Visit Akureyri, the Capital of the North, and stroll around the Botanical Garden or visit the birthplace of author Jón “Nonni” Sveinsson. On your way towards Mývatn, take in the impressive Goðafoss, the waterfall of the Gods, one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls. Continue to Lake Mývatn area which has many incredible natural wonders such as Dimmuborgir Lava Fields and the Námafjall Geothermal Area. End the day by relaxing in the warm waters of Mývatn Nature Baths and enjoy the view of the rugged surrounding landscape.

Accommodation is in Lake Mývatn area for two nights.

Day 5

Northeast Iceland

Explore Húsavík town, the island’s whale-watching capital, with its colourful houses, unique museums and snow-capped peaks across the bay. Go whale watching and see whales in their natural habitat (limited in winter). Visit Tjörnes, a peninsula known for its dense population of ptarmigan and rich fossil, as well as the lovely Öxarfjörður fjord that features woodlands and tuff mountains. Continue to the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park, which includes some of the most spectacular and diverse sights in Iceland such as Ásbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss Waterfall, and Hljóðaklettar Cliffs.

Day 6

East Iceland

Head to Egilsstaðir town through the mystical barren landscape of Möðrudalsöræfi. The town lies on the banks of Lagarfljót River the alleged home of sea serpent Lagarfljótsormur! In the area are Hengifoss Waterfall, Hallormsstaður National Forest and Skriðuklaustur Centre of Culture and History.

Accommodation is in Egilsstaðir area for 2 nights.

Day 7

A Detour to Borgarfjörður Eystri or the Wilderness Center

If you like hiking or have a soft spot for puffins, Borgarfjörður Eystri is the place to be! You can opt for a day hike in the area of the Stórurð Giant Boulders that lie below the small glacier west of Dyrfjöll Mountains, or for a shorter option along Brúnavík Bay, possibly in combination with watching puffins right by the small harbor in Bakkagerði. As an alternative, you can join one of the guided riding or hiking tours offered by the Wilderness Center – this might be of special interest for those that would like to get a small insight to the Icelandic interior.

Day 8

The Eastfjords

The drive along the Eastfjords is very scenic with an endless view of mountains, fjords, and beautiful fishing villages. The area offers many interesting stops along the way, including villages such as Djúpivogur, Neskaupstaður, Seyðisfjörður and Fáskrúðsfjörður, which has a great view of Skrúður, a hollow cliff island that rises steeply out of the sea east of the bay. End the day in Höfn town which is famous for its delicious lobster.

Accommodation is in Höfn area.

Day 9

Vatnajökull National Park

Admire the breath-taking scenery of the southeast coast of Iceland and stop to explore the biggest glacier lagoon of its kind, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. See the towering icebergs of the lagoon up close on a cruise and wildlife such as seals and birds in their natural habitat. Continue to Skaftafell National Park, which is an ideal destination to enjoy outdoor activities as the area offers both short and easy hiking trails.

Explore the tiny village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Fjaðrárgljúfur, a beautiful canyon located not far from the village.

Accommodation is in Vík area for 2 nights.

Day 10

south.is

South Iceland

Visit Vík village and Reynisfjara, a black sand beach with walls of columnar basalt. South of the village is Dyrhólaey, a stunning rock arch from where you have a breath-taking view in all directions. Optionally, you can use this day for a day trip to Landmannalaugar Highland Resort (buses depart from Hvolsvöllur), or a small detour to the Westman Islands.

Day 11

south.is

Gullfoss & Geysir

Take the time to enjoy the scenery before driving onwards to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls from where you should follow the footpath to the hidden waterfall, Gljúfrabúi. Continue to the sights of the Golden Circle route which includes the spectacular Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Hot Spring area.

Accommodation is in Gullfoss/Geysir area for two nights.

Day 12

south.is

Þingvellir National Park

Spend time in Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of great historical and geological importance. You can snorkel between the continents in Silfra fissure or go for an adventurous snowmobile tour on Langjökull Glacier. Stop at Friðheimar greenhouse to learn about Iceland´s own tomato production and a taste of their delicious tomato soup and enjoy homemade ice cream at Efstidalur Farm for dessert. If you´ve not yet tried to ride the Icelandic horse, you can go for a short tour near Hveragerði before ending the day in the Secret Lagoon or the Laugavatn Fontana Spa.

Day 13

Departure Day

Depending on the time of your flight you have a few options to explore today. You can explore the Geothermal Park in Hveragerði on your way back to Reykjavík and take time to enjoy the lively capital before your departure. Another option is to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula including the famous Blue Lagoon before heading to the airport

Accommodation is in Reykjavík (optional and not included in the price).

Rates

Due to the great flexibility regarding car type and accommodation, as well as the exchange rate, please ask us for an accurate quote.

Reykjavik is well serviced by international Airline companies from Europe and North America. All the self-drive tours start and finish in Reykjavik. The airport is located about 50km outside the city. There is a shuttle bus that runs regularly between the airport and downtown. The bus stop is located right outside the terminal and the departures are scheduled to take off 35-40min after each flight arrival. The ride takes about 45min.

Accommodation for 12 nights, budget or comfort rooms with breakfast
Rental car for 13 days, with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance (pick up & drop off in Reykjavik)
Flybus transfer to and from airport
E-Itinerary with the tour map, location points, and pictures for you to view before you arrive.
Driver Guide tablet mapping and navigating your personalized journey and highlights of surrounding areas. Including a GPS Navigation system, recommendations along the way, Wi-Fi, helpful information, a messenger system to stay in touch with us, our Driver Guide will instantly become your best travel mate.
24/7 emergency phone line service
Taxes and service fee

Accommodation in Reykjavik on day 0 and day 13
Rental car pick-up at the airport (extra fee applies)

Weather

Iceland has a subarctic climate. However, it has a milder climate than would normally be expected, given its northerly location. Reason for this is the North Atlantic Current which influences the climate and makes it reasonably temperate. This gives rise to warm summers, with top temperatures between 20-25°C. While thunderstorms are rare, storms with high winds, especially in the highlands, do occur. Strong glacial winds can also whip up heavy dust storms, especially in early summer, in the arid highlands of the Vatnajökull glacier. The one thing that can be said about the weather in Iceland is that it is unpredictable and weather conditions can change very quickly, especially in the highlands.

Seasons

All seasons are interesting and special in their own way.

Spring sees the arrival of migratory birds and courtship season. At this time there are fewer tourists, but not all areas are accessible – highland roads are often still covered with snow.

Summer is short and lasts from June through August. This is the busiest time as far as traffic and tourist traffic is concerned. If you want to travel at this time it is essential that you make arrangments and book accommodations well in advance.

Fall is a beautiful time of the year, with the leaves turning colors and the first sightings of northern lights. Migratory birds prepare to take off on their long journeys south.

Winter is by far the calmest time of the year to visit Iceland. The average temperatures are around 0°C, but can drop down to -10°C. At this time road conditions can be difficult and the highlands are off-limits.

Northern Lights

There is never any guarantee to see the Northern Lights, as they are a natural phenomenon. But your best chances to see them are during fall, winter or early spring, when the air is clear and the nights are dark, especially around a New Moon.

Money

Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona. There is a currency exchange at the airport and at banks around the country. However, banks are only available in larger settlements. But Visa and Mastercard are also widely accepted.

Electricity

Iceland uses stand European sockets. You may need an adaptor in order to be able to charge your electronic devices.

Driving in Iceland

While the towns and the ring road is paved, many other roads are not. It is especially important to pay attention to the signs that warn drivers that the road surface is about to change from tarmac to gravel. If you don’t slow down, you can easily lose control of the car.

Iceland has many one-lane bridges. Be cautious and courteous when encountering other drivers.

Sometimes roads are closed. Usually, there is a good reason for that. Check before you set out and don’t ignore those ‘Road closed’ signs. You are most likely to encounter them in the highlands. The ice and snow are slow to melt up there and some roads can still be closed even during the official summer season.

After heavy rains, the road can be slick and strong winds can also pose a hazard.

Gas stations

Gas stations are widely distributed, even in the smallest settlements, so there should be no problem finding one to fill up when you need it. Some are not serviced, however, and you’ll have to make your purchase by credit card.

As the weather can be so variable you should think in layers and prepare for all kinds of weather. However, obviously, you’d need warmer clothes during the cold half of the year.

Since the wind is the most challenging weather factor it is important to bring good windproof clothes!

Wind/rainproof jacket with hood (probably the most important item of clothing)
Woolen socks
Hat, scarf, gloves
Warm fleece jacket
Jumper
Thermal underwear
Lip balm, sun protection, sunglasses
Bathing suit
Hiking boots
Sneakers
Outdoor pants (fast drying)
T-shirts
Eye-mask if you are traveling in summer (the sun is up most of the time)
Refillable water bottle
Compass
Hiking maps (GPS doesn’t work everywhere)
Energy bars

While in the countryside casual/outdoor clothing is just fine, if you are planning on spending time in Reykjavik you might also want to consider taking some glad rags to better merge with the fashion-conscious nightlife scene of the capital.

Rental Car Categories:

Category A / Economy

Summer: VW Polo, Toyota Yaris, Skoda Fabia or similar
Winter: VW Polo, Suzuki Swift 4×4 or similar

Passengers: 2 adults + 2 child
Suitcases: 2
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 102 g/km
Category B/ Compact

Summer: VW Golf, Toyota Auris, Honda Jazz or similar
Winter: VW Golf, Kia Ceed, Suzuki S-Cross 4WD or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 2
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 116 g/km

Category S / Standard

Summer: Toyota Corolla Auto, Skoda Octavia Auto or similar
Winter: Skoda Octavia Sedan, Toyota Avensis or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 3 large + 1 small
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 102 g/km

Category N / Estate

Summer: VW Golf STW, Skoda Octavia STW or similar
Winter: Skoda Octavia STW, Kia Ceed STW or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 5
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 104 g/km

Category F / Compact 4×4

Suzuki Vitara 4WD or similar

Passengers: 5 adults
Suitcases: 3
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 204 g/km

Category FG / Compact 4×4

Dacia Duster 4WD or similar

Passengers: 5 adults
Suitcases: 3
Doors: 5
Manual
Driving restriction: Allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 204 g/km

Category G / Compact Elite 4×4

Kia Sportage, Toyota Rav 4 4WD or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 4
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 158 g/km

Category H / Compact Elite 4×4

Kia Sorrento, Discovery Sport 4WD or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 5
Doors: 5
Automatic
Driving restriction: Allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 194 g/km

Category I / Premium

Mitsubishi Pajero 4WD, Toyota Land Cruiser 4WD or similar

Passengers: 5 adults
Suitcases: 5
Doors: 5
Automatic
Driving restriction: Allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 213 g/km

Category C / Intermediate

Toyota Corolla or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 4
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 137 g/km

Category D / Estate Special

Skoda Octavia 4WD STW or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 5
Doors: 5
Automatic or manual
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 141 g/km

Category L / Luxury

Audi A4, Mercedes Benz C200 or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 3
Doors: 4
Automatic
Driving restriction: Not allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 127 g/km

Category R / Luxury 4×4

Audi Q7 Quattro, VW Touareg, Land Rover Discovery or similar

Passengers: 4 adults + 1 child
Suitcases: 5
Doors: 5
Automatic
Driving restriction: Allowed on F-roads

CO2 emissions: 195 g/km

Outside of Reykjavik, most accommodations in Iceland are relatively simple. We mostly work with Bed and Breakfasts and farmhouse accommodations, which supports the local community.

Country hotels
More facilities and services and more luxury in comfort. All rooms in cat. IV have private/en-suite bathrooms and are better equipped. On-site bars/restaurants offering buffets and/or á la carte menus open year-round or summer only.

Bed and breakfast
Bed and breakfasts generally have a more intimate atmosphere. Guests stay in the home of the hosts or in a separate building on the premises. Rooms range from simple to the more comfortable with shared or private/en-suite bathrooms. Meals other than breakfast are sometimes available.

Rooms in bed & breakfasts and country hotels can be of four different categories.

Category I | standard
These rooms are simple, comfortable and adequate. Beds are made and rooms are cleaned daily. Clean towels are supplied. Guests have access to a communal lounge. Breakfast is included.

Category II | standard
In addition to category I, all rooms have hand basins and are usually of a higher standard and better equipped. Breakfast is included.

Category III | comfort
In addition to categories I and II, rooms have private/en-suite bathrooms. Breakfast is included.

Category IV | comfort
Rooms with private/en-suite bathrooms in country hotels. Better equipped with TV and sometimes tea and coffee making facilities. Breakfast is included.

Self-catering cottages or apartments
All cottages/apartments have cooking facilities and the necessary kitchen utensils and crockery for the registered number of guests. Duvets are supplied but guests rent the bed linen. A great choice for families or smaller groups.

Cottages/apartments are rented out both on a daily and weekly basis. They must be neat and in good condition, have running water and a WC. Duvets are supplied but guests are required to rent bed linen. Cleaning is usually not included in the price; guests are normally required to clean themselves before departure, although sometimes cleaning services are available at an extra fee. All cottages/apartments have cooking facilities and the necessary kitchen utensils and crockery for the registered number of guests. Breakfast is sometimes available on request. Self-catering cottages/apartments can be of four categories: A, B, C or D. The difference between the categories is mainly a question of size, extra facilities, and comfort.

Category A
These cottages/apartments are simple and need only be one room with WC facilities. Cooking facilities and refrigerator.

Category B
These cottages/apartments have at least one separate bedroom. Coffee maker. Shower facilities in the area.

Category C
In addition to the requirements of A and B, there is a shower inside the cottage/apartment and at least one well-equipped bedroom w/bedside tables and a wardrobe. Coffee-maker and toaster. Veranda with garden furniture and barbeque facilities.

Category D
These are cottages/apartments with requirements of overall good standard. At least one well-equipped bedroom with bedside tables and wardrobe. Comfortable and tasteful furniture. Veranda with garden furniture, barbeque facilities and hot tub/Jacuzzi.

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